European eagle owl (Bubo bubo). This bird is found in parts of Europe, Asia and north Africa. It inhabits mainly wooded areas, steppes and deserts, preferring open country for hunting. It is the largest owl in the world, measuring nearly 70 centimetres in length. Adult birds are territorial. The young roam far during their first two years in order to find their own ranges. The European eagle owl preys on small to mid-size mammals and birds, such as mice, hares and gamebirds. It supplements its diet with insects during the winter. In captivity they have been known to live for up to sixty years.